It is impossible not to like Meligha Garfield. The warmth of his personality and smile—his unpretentious confidence, genuine enthusiasm, and calming demeanor make him a natural leader, able to quietly command large groups. Those who’ve watched him over the past few years emcee the Black Faculty & Staff Awards or lead the planning committee for Black History Month know this about him: he was born to do this work.
The esteemed director of the Black Cultural Center (BCC) at the University of Utah, Garfield recently announced that he would be departing the U to embark on a new and exciting journey at Georgia Tech University’s Office of Black Culture, Innovation, & Technology.
“Stepping away from my role as the inaugural director of the Black Cultural Center at the University of Utah is more than leaving a job,” he said. “It’s bidding farewell to a journey that included building, nurturing, and championing a space that began as an idea and flourished into a vibrant hub of Black excellence.” Garfield explains that starting from scratch with the BCC was both a challenge and an opportunity to create a new, transformative space for cultural exploration at the U.
During his time at the University of Utah, Meligha has played a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community and inclusivity for Black students, faculty, and staff. As the director of the BCC, he spearheaded initiatives that celebrated the rich diversity of Black culture, providing a space for dialogue, artistic expression, and intellectual exploration. His leadership was instrumental in creating new student programs like Generation Next, Operation SUCCESS, and the Male Success Initiative—and he helped secure partnerships to support students, including a $50,000 grant last year from Pepsi Co.
It’s an exciting new venture for a leader who has already enjoyed success breaking new ground. “Meligha’s extensive experience in cultural affairs, combined with his creative approach, make him a perfect choice to lead in this dynamic, new environment,” says Mary Ann Villarreal, vice president for Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion at the U. “The groundwork he laid for cultural appreciation and inclusivity will continue to shape the University of Utah for years to come—and we wish him all the best in his new position.”
